5 world-class midfielders who do not get the credit they deserve

#2 THIAGO, BAYERN MUNICH

Thiago has been linked with Liverpool

The understated brilliance of Thiago Alcantara has run Bayern Munich's midfield for the last seven seasons, resulting in 16 trophies during that time.

The Spain international joined Bayern Munich from Barcelona in 2013 for €25 million, a fee which looks like a bargain in hindsight. Aesthetically pleasing and extremely effective, Thiago's dribbling and passing abilities have often stood out; his performance in the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain was hailed by many.

Thiago will be allowed to leave if suitors pay a minimum of €30 million (£27 million). In Munich, they continue to strongly expect Liverpool to make an approach but are yet to receive an official bid from Merseyside. #lfclive [@honigstein] pic.twitter.com/37bsy5Ca6X

— Anfield Watch (@AnfieldWatch) August 25, 2020

The 29-year-old has a year left in his Bayern Munich contract and looks set to leave the club, with Liverpool leading the line for his signature.

---

#1 GEORGINIO WIJNALDUM, LIVERPOOL

Georginio Wijnaldum has been pulling the strings in the Liverpool midfield in the last few seasons

Eyebrows were raised when Liverpool spent £23 million to buy Georginio Wijnaldum from relegated Newcastle United.

Wijnaldum had been Newcastle United's best player the season before but it was surprising to see Liverpool pay a hefty fee to procure him. Four seasons later, the Netherlands international has been everpresent as Liverpool have romped to Champions League and Premier League successes.

📰 [AD🥉] | Ronald Koeman hopes to bring Georginio Wijnaldum to the Camp Nou as one of his first purchases pic.twitter.com/aNdnQw6twF

— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) August 20, 2020

The 29-year-old, like Thiago, has only one year left in his contract. Renowned for his off-the-ball work as well as his dynamism, the former PSV Eindhoven midfielder has been linked with a move to Barcelona.

---